Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese striped loach (Cobitis biwae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cobitidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
Cobitis biwae, the Japanese striped loach, is a small bottom fish of the family Cobitidae from fresh water of Japan. The species has an elongate, laterally compressed body with a row of dark spots or stripes along the flank and bears barbels around the mouth; it reaches about 11 cm. It lives on sand and gravel bottoms of rivers and streams, where it often partly buries itself. The diet consists of small bottom invertebrates. The species is oviparous and forms distinct pairs during breeding. In Japan it is locally cultured and eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese striped loach?
The Japanese striped loach has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Bottom-dweller with barbels that partly buries itself in sand.
Where does the Japanese striped loach live?
The Japanese striped loach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of Japan.
How big does the Japanese striped loach get?
The Japanese striped loach grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Japanese striped loach dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese striped loach is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Japanese striped loach edible?
Yes, the Japanese striped loach is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Cobitis
More from the family Cobitidae
Want the complete picture on the Japanese striped loach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese striped loach is one of 12,519 species in the app.